Lilliputian hallucinations

Lilliputian hallucinations are a type of hallucination where objects, people, or animals appear smaller than they would in reality. This phenomenon is named after the small people in Jonathan Swift's novel Gulliver's Travels. Lilliputian hallucinations are often associated with certain medical and psychological conditions, including Charles Bonnet Syndrome, migraine, schizophrenia, and the use of certain drugs.

Definition

Lilliputian hallucinations are a subtype of visual hallucinations characterized by the perception of objects or living beings as being smaller than they are in reality. The term "Lilliputian" comes from the fictional island of Lilliput in Jonathan Swift's novel Gulliver's Travels, where the inhabitants are only six inches tall.

Causes

Lilliputian hallucinations can be caused by a variety of conditions. They are often associated with Charles Bonnet Syndrome, a condition that causes visual hallucinations in people who have lost their sight. They can also occur in people with migraines, schizophrenia, and in those who use or withdraw from certain drugs, such as alcohol or hallucinogens.

Treatment

Treatment for Lilliputian hallucinations typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve medication to manage symptoms of schizophrenia or migraines, or therapy and support for those dealing with substance abuse. In some cases, the hallucinations may decrease or disappear over time without treatment.

See also

• Alice in Wonderland syndrome
• Hallucination
• Charles Bonnet Syndrome